Scotland-based electric coach operator Ember has committed exclusively to Michelin tyres as it scales up its fleet of zero-emission vehicles, underlining a shared commitment to reliability and sustainability. The move supports Ember’s 24/7 operations and coincides with the company's rapid growth across Scotland’s intercity transport network.
Ember, the UK’s first all-electric intercity coach company, has selected Michelin as its exclusive tyre supplier across its entire fleet of 78 Yutong EV coaches. The decision reflects the firm’s focus on quality, durability, and environmental impact as it expands services across Scotland.
Headquartered at the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc (MSIP) in Dundee, Ember operates frequent low-cost routes connecting cities including Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen, and Dundee. The company launched in 2019 with just two coaches and now runs one of the most intensively used EV coach fleets in the UK.
With high utilisation rates and fast turnaround times between journeys, Ember requires tyres capable of withstanding constant use. The company reports that its coaches are typically on the road almost continuously, recharging for only 45–60 minutes at a time.
Michelin supplies Ember directly, while the coach operator’s in-house team manages tyre fitting and maintenance. New vehicles are factory-equipped with Michelin rubber, including the MICHELIN X Coach Z and X Multi Z 2 in 295/80 R22.5 sizes. Once worn, these are replaced by MICHELIN X Coach D Remix tyres on the rear axle — extending casing life while keeping rolling resistance low.
All tyres are regrooved by Ember technicians, extending tyre life by up to 25% and improving energy efficiency — a key concern for electric fleets seeking maximum range.
Michelin’s technical team conducted detailed axle load weighing at Ember depots to ensure optimal tyre pressures. In addition, Michelin’s training specialists ran sessions on regrooving and tyre management to support the Ember team.
This technical collaboration reflects both companies’ shared sustainability objectives. Michelin’s Remix retreading solution aligns with Ember’s drive to maximise resource use and reduce carbon impact across its supply chain.
Ember’s growing fleet is powered by renewable energy, including electricity generated by two on-site wind turbines installed at the former Michelin car tyre plant. The company continues to expand, with new depots planned in Oban and Inverness to meet rising demand for zero-emission intercity travel.
Tagged with: Michelin, Ember, electric coaches, EV tyres, retread tyres, low rolling resistance, Yutong, commercial EV, sustainable transport, tyre lifecycle, fleet management
Disclaimer: This content may include forward-looking statements. Views expressed are not verified or endorsed by Tyre News Media.
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